A new study sheds light on the final experiences of people with terminal illnesses, revealing that many of them experience similar dreams and visions as they approach the end of their lives.
The research, conducted by researchers at the Azienda USL–IRCCS di Reggio Emilia health institution, involved more than 200 palliative care professionals, who reported on the dreams and visions of their patients in the final stage of life.
The results show several recurring themes. Many patients report encounters with deceased loved ones, while others describe symbols of transition such as doors, stairs, or lights. Researchers believe that these experiences can help with emotional coping and give meaning to the final moments.
According to the study published in the journal Death Studies, these visions have an important psychological role, enabling patients to express feelings and thoughts that are often difficult to articulate in words.
Some patients experience calming dreams. In one case, a patient saw her deceased husband say, "I'm waiting for you," which was interpreted as a sign of acceptance and peace with the end.
However, not all experiences are positive. Some patients report disturbing dreams, which may be related to fears or unresolved emotional conflicts. One such case involved a vision in which a “monster figure with a mother’s face” pulled the patient down, reflecting anxiety and uncertainty.
In contrast, others experience beautiful and symbolic images, such as nature or animals, that convey a sense of calm. One patient described a “white horse running along the coast.”
Experts emphasize that the reasons for these visions remain unclear, but suggest that they may serve as psychological and spiritual mechanisms for coping with the end of life. While soothing dreams are associated with acceptance and peace, disturbing ones may indicate emotional or clinical needs that require attention.
The study also highlights that many patients are hesitant to talk about these experiences for fear of prejudice, making this phenomenon still poorly understood in clinical and cultural terms. /GazetaExpress/
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